Confessions of a oenophile: reviews of highly rated wines, grocery store finds, and all other kinds.

Tuesday, July 29, 2014

McPhearson Cellars Tre Colore

McPhearson Cellars Tre Colore 2010
Texas

www.mcphersoncellars.com

I was in Texas weekend before last, visiting the parentals. This jogged my memory -- I had a bottled of Texas wine in my collection. I've been holding on to this for a while and there seemed to be no better time to open in.

I know, Texas is not what comes to mind when you think fine wine. However, we have a viticulturist from Denison, Texas to thank for modern winemaking. Mr. T. V. Munson is responsible for the technique of grafting European vines onto American rootstock in order to combat the plague of phylloxera (a totally gross little root louse that decimated European vineyards in the 19th century -- and is still a problem today). In essence, he saved wine as we know it. So, thanks Mr. Munson! Texas is currently America’s number 5 grape and wine producer. Who knew?

This wine is from McPhearson Cellars, located in Lubbock, Texas. It is not indicated where the grapes were grown, but they are likely sourced at least partially from the High Plains, outside of Lubbock.

Review: This has a lightly aromatic nose of red raspberries, cherries, and soft white pepper. On the palate it's a tiny touch off dry and brightly acidic. The wine has a light texture with little tannin, tons of tart cranberries, and a touch of honeysuckle.

The Tre Colore is a Rhone style blend of Mourvèdre, Carignan, and Viognier. It is fermented and aged in stainless steel -- no oak contact to detract from the lively primary fruit.